The 11th edition of the Helmet Blessing Pilgrimage, which annually gathers thousands of motorcyclists in Fátima, will this year include parallel events in Madeira and the Azores. This expansion aims to facilitate participation for motorcyclists from the archipelagos, who previously faced significant expenses to travel to the Sanctuary.
In Madeira, celebrations will take place near Fórum Machico, starting at 11:00 AM. In the Azores, the event will be held at Campo de São Francisco in Ponta Delgada, São Miguel, from 10:00 AM local time. The main blessing in Fátima will be presided over by the Patriarch of Lisbon, Rui Valério, with mass beginning at 11:00 AM.
Carlos Pereira, president of the Helmet Blessing Association (ABC), urged for "calm" and "careful" riding to prevent accidents and ensure the pilgrimage is a "day of friendship, fellowship, and prayer." The organization anticipates a "full house" in Fátima, with good weather expected.
